Chief Human Resources Officer
Charlene Polege is a mission-driven HR executive with over 20 years of experience leading the people and cultural components of organizational transformation in higher education, public service, and the private sector. As a first-generation graduate, she also brings lived experience and a deep commitment to expanding opportunity for all through higher education.
Previously, Charlene served as the Chief People Officer of the Regional Transportation District (Denver), where she led enterprise-wide HR strategy for 3,500 employees within a complex, highly regulated public agency. Other prior roles include serving as the CHRO of Athabasca University and VP of HR & Privacy Officer at SilverBirch Hotels & Resorts. Known for her bridge-building leadership and consultative style, Charlene is a trusted advisor, mentoring and coaching leaders and staff while aligning people strategy to organizational purpose and performance.
She holds a Master of Arts with a specialization in Global Leadership and Conflict Analysis and Management from Royal Roads University, is a Certified Executive Coach (CEC), and maintains a senior HR credential from SHRM.